Close to 30 yrs ago a lady introduced me to a Willman Aluminum Calf Puller.  I have the model 108 at 60 inches long.  They are not cheap as cost $400.  Have a traditional Stone Puller behind the seat of the pick up because it breaks down to carry.  Have had this Willman from back in the Simmental nightmare days.  It stays at the maternity area, hung on the wall, with chains, hooks, and a head snare.  Ratchet that comes with puller is cheap and recommend getting a better one. Would not give it up for anything. (I actually bought a second one fearing the company would quite making them)  One of the better tools and do not hesitate to use it.  Per the pipe slide pullers, have seen to many that pinch the operators hand as it slides.  Ouch.  And they do bend.   Old cable puller got scrapped after it cost us 40 years ago pulling a backwards calf and the cable hung up. 3 men could not get the calf out fast enough to live. School of Hard Knocks.

Link to a Willman Puller

  http://www.hawkermfg.com/calfpuller/